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Ritabrata Banerjee

Sophia Smith stars again as Portland Thorns cap off turbulent season with record third NWSL title after 2-0 win over Kansas City

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Recently-crowned MVP Sophia Smith netted her fifteenth goal of the season as Portland Thorns beat Kansas City to lift their third NWSL title.

  • Portland win third NWSL title
  • MVP Smith on target
  • Caps off season of off-field turmoil

WHAT HAPPENED? After missing out on the National Women's Soccer League Shield by just one point, Portland Thorns bagged the NWSL title after a gap of five years courtesy of Smith's fourth-minute strike and Addisyn Merrick's second half own goal.

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THE BIGGER PICTURE: Portland have endured off-field problems this season, with the Yates Report detailing sexual harassment and coercion allegations against former coach Paul Riley. Merritt Paulson - who was accused of obscuring the investigation into Riley's misconduct - stepped down as Thorns CEO earlier this month.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

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Portland Thorns NWSL championsGetty Images

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DID YOU KNOW? Portland Thorns are now the most successful team in NWSL history with three championship titles and two Shields.

WHAT NEXT? The Portland squad will enjoy some well-earned rest over the coming months before the 2023 NWSL season kicks off next year.

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